Thomas Tuchel urged to fix ‘strange’ Ben White situation following defender’s England snub as Three Lions legend predicts new boss will ask Arsenal star to join his first squad in new year

White made it clear to former England head coach Gareth Southgate that he didn’t want to be considered for selection earlier this year, which led to the Arsenal star not being considered to play at Euro 2024. While there is fierce competition to start at right-back for the Three Lions, White’s form for the Gunners over the past three years, plus his versatility, means he would likely become a regular in the squad should he make himself available again.

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  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  Southgate’s exit means a fresh era for England, which will be led by incoming boss Thomas Tuchel. It’s not clear yet whether White has any interest in representing his country again but former England striker Shearer believes the German will try to have a conversation with the 27-year-old defender to understand his stance on a recall to the squad.

  WHAT SHEARER SAID

  “With Thomas Tuchel taking charge in the New Year, I wonder if it is a chance to see Ben White come back into the England fold,” Shearer told Betfair.

  “White’s situation is a strange one, and I for one don’t know the background; we all hear different rumours as to why he left the England camp or why he doesn’t want to be selected, but I don’t know whether they’re true.

  “I suspect that Thomas Tuchel will want to have a conversation with Ben or Arsenal and try to find out why he doesn’t want to be selected if that is the case. If Ben doesn’t, then you must respect that, and that doesn’t mean I agree with it, but you have to respect it.

  “Thomas Tuchel will likely have a conversation with him and see whether he’s open to coming back into the squad.”

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  WHAT NEXT FOR ENGLAND?

  Interim head coach Lee Carsley will oversee the upcoming Nations League games against Greece and the Republic of Ireland before Tuchel begins his new role in January. England will appear for the first time under the former Chelsea and Bayern Munich boss next March.